Plans to transform a historic arthouse cinema on Oxford Street in Sydney's Paddington into a mixed-use development have been lodged with the New South Wales Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI).
Led by developer WT Malouf, the state significant proposal for the Verona Cinema has been designed by local practice Tonkin Zulaikha Greer (TZG). Almost thirty years ago, the firm completed a conversion of the same cinema building, which was originally built in 1946 as an industrial facility and later became a four-screen cinema complex after it was acquired by Palace Cinemas in 1995.
The building remained unused for a decade after having closed its doors in 2010. Following the site's acquisition by the current developer in 2021, plans to redevelop the building have passed through the hands of Scott Carver (now Studio SC), who developed an six-storey, mixed-use commercial and retail scheme for the site in 2022 and an eight-storey iteration in 2024.
The current proposal from TZG adds residential uses into the mix. Plans include a new cinema run by Golden Age, with multiple screens and creative performance spaces; approximately 60 metres of retail frontage for small-scale businesses along Oxford Street; and 53 apartments, including 15 affordable dwellings.
According to a media release, "the development will retain the Verona's iconic brick facade, recognising the building's role in Paddington's cultural life for nearly three decades." The proposal includes an extension of this facade and a new entry, articulated in red hues. Above, the faceted residential facade is envisioned in a blond brick.
The release also notes that landscaped public connections between South Dowling and Verona streets will improve walkability and accessibility.
Tim Greer, director at TZG, described the project as "a once-in-a-generation opportunity to restore this important part of Oxford Street."
Director at WT Malouf Jack Joseph added, "At a time when Sydney is losing suburban cinemas, we're committed to creating a bigger and better cinema experience for Paddington. Golden Age's arrival will ensure Oxford Street continues to be a home for independent film, live performance and community events."
CEO at Golden Age Cinema and Bar Barrie Barton commented, "Cinema can be more than just watching a film - it can be the beating heart of a neighbourhood … we've seen how a cinema can anchor dining, music and social life, and we're excited to bring that same cultural energy to Paddington.
"Verona will be a chance to radically reimagine what a cinema can be for Sydney, not just preserving a much-loved institution but giving it new life in a way that reflects the city's creative future," he said.
According to the media communique, the project has been designed in line with the City of Sydney's Oxford Street Cultural and Creative Precinct strategy, and the NSW 24-Hour Economy Strategy, "contributing to the revival of Oxford Street as a safe, vibrant and connected cultural precinct that operates by day and night."
"This development is about more than apartments," Joseph said. "It's about contributing to Oxford Street's restoration as one of Sydney's great cultural boulevards, where people come to live, create and socialise."
The project is expected to be determined by the NSW DPHI in 2026, with construction planned to start later that year and be complete within three years.
